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en-usFri, 18 Aug 2017 01:44:11 -0400Fri, 18 Aug 2017 01:44:11 -0400The latest news on AccuWeather.com from Business Insiderhttp://static3.businessinsider.com/assets/images/bilogo-250x36-wide-rev.pngBusiness Insiderhttp://www.businessinsider.com
http://www.businessinsider.com/earth-overshoot-day-2017-resources-used-up-2017-8We've already exhausted the amount of resources that Earth can produce in 2017 — at the fastest pace everhttp://www.businessinsider.com/earth-overshoot-day-2017-resources-used-up-2017-8
Wed, 02 Aug 2017 18:09:00 -0400Ashley Williams
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static3.businessinsider.com/image/598223104528e68e268b57c7-2000/rtx182n6.jpg" alt="drought" data-mce-source="Reuters/Nacho Doce" data-mce-caption="A worker of SABESP, a Brazilian enterprise of Sao Paulo state, that provides water and sewage services to residential, commercial and industrial areas looks at the cracked ground of Jaguary dam in Braganca Paulista, 100 km from Sao Paulo" /></p><p>The earliest-ever Earth Overshoot Day on August 2, 2017 means that humans are pushing the planet to its ecological limit at an accelerated pace.</p>
<p>Previously known as Ecological Debt Day, it&rsquo;s when the global population&rsquo;s demand exceeds the amount of resources that Earth can produce for the year. The date has slowly crept up from Dec. 21 in 1971.</p>
<p>&ldquo;Most people think it&rsquo;s relevant to know how much they earn and spend,&rdquo; said Dr. Mathis Wackernagel, CEO of the Global Footprint Network and co-creator of the Ecological Footprint.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.footprintnetwork.org/our-work/ecological-footprint/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Ecological Footprint</a>, discovered in the 1990s, is the only metric that measures how much of nature's resources we use and how much we currently have.</p>
<p>&ldquo;We can spend twice as much as we earn for some time, [but] even if your fortune is big, it&rsquo;s going to go down,&rdquo; Wackernagel told AccuWeather.</p>
<p>Research shows that humanity&rsquo;s demand is about 70 percent faster than what Earth can renew, said Wackernagel.</p>
<p>Humans would need the equivalent of 1.7 Earths to accommodate our consumption level, according to the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.overshootday.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Global Footprint Network</a>.</p>
<p>&ldquo;We&rsquo;re borrowing time, or we&rsquo;re going into debt, to borrow resources from the future to sustain our way of living to fulfill what we are consuming,&rdquo; said public speaker and blogger Kathryn Kellogg.</p>
<p>The overshoot date is calculated by comparing our Ecological Footprint with the planet&rsquo;s&nbsp;<a href="http://www.footprintnetwork.org/faq/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">biocapacity</a>.</p>
<p>In other words, we look at our total annual consumption and Earth&rsquo;s ability to produce useful biological materials and to absorb carbon dioxide emissions.</p>
<h2><strong>Ecological debt: How we got here</strong></h2>
<p>Right now, many countries are running on an&nbsp;<a href="http://www.overshootday.org/about-earth-overshoot-day/national-ecological-deficit-days/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ecological deficit,</a>&nbsp;meaning that their ecological footprints exceed their biocapacities.</p>
<p>Countries maintain their deficits by&nbsp;<a href="http://www.overshootday.org/about-earth-overshoot-day/national-ecological-deficit-days/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">overfishing and over-harvesting</a>&nbsp;forests, emitting more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere than ecosystems can absorb and importing more goods than are exported, according to the Global Footprint Network.</p>
<p>The United States&rsquo; Ecological Deficit Day&nbsp;<a href="http://www.overshootday.org/about-earth-overshoot-day/national-ecological-deficit-days/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">fell on June 10.</a></p>
<p>Comprising only about 5 percent of the world's population, Americans&nbsp;<a href="http://www.worldwatch.org/node/810" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">use about 25 percent</a>&nbsp;of the planet&rsquo;s coal, 26 percent of its oil and 27 percent of its natural gas, according to the WorldWatch Institute.</p>
<p>&ldquo;We&rsquo;re going to start seeing things decline and seeing the price of those things shoot up because there&rsquo;s not enough supply to meet our demand,&rdquo; said Kellogg.</p>
<p><img class="float_left" src="http://static1.businessinsider.com/image/59822419b50ab181238b564c-2400/rtr2tkdv.jpg" alt="natural gas" data-mce-source="Reuters/Akhtar Soomro" data-mce-caption="A worker carries an empty liquid petroleum gas (LPG) cylinder at a workshop in Karachi." data-link="http://pictures.reuters.com/C.aspx?VP3=SearchResult&amp;VBID=2C0FCIULGJ_M&amp;SMLS=1&amp;RW=1339&amp;RH=841#/SearchResult&amp;VBID=2C0FCIULGJ_M&amp;SMLS=1&amp;RW=1339&amp;RH=841&amp;PN=3&amp;POPUPPN=140&amp;POPUPIID=2C04080Z723YP" /></p>
<p><strong>Solutions for a sustainable future</strong></p>
<p>&ldquo;Having resources secured is fundamental for our ability to operate our economy,&rdquo; said Wackernagel.</p>
<p>He added that there are four key factors that can impact a country&rsquo;s opportunities to end overshoot: how cities are built and operated, how&nbsp;<a href="http://www.overshootday.org/take-action/energy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energy</a>&nbsp;is provided, how we eat and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.overshootday.org/take-action/population/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how many people</a>&nbsp;there are.</p>
<p>&ldquo;In the long run, [population] is probably the most significant factor,&rdquo; Wackernagel said. &ldquo;If we&rsquo;re looking at short-term gains, getting out of fossil fuel is the fastest way of reducing the surplus.&rdquo;</p>
<p>According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.overshootday.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Global Footprint Network</a>, cutting carbon emissions in half would give the planet about three additional months before reaching overshoot. They make up&nbsp;<a href="http://www.overshootday.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">60 percent</a>&nbsp;of our ecological footprint.</p>
<p>Because personal transportation takes up&nbsp;<a href="http://www.overshootday.org/take-action/cities/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">14 percent</a>&nbsp;of the carbon footprint, the Global Footprint Network noted that reducing driving by&nbsp;<a href="http://www.overshootday.org/take-action/cities/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">50 percent worldwide</a>would push the overshoot date back 10 days.</p>
<p>A number of politicians, universities and businesses&nbsp;<a href="http://wearestillin.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">have also committed</a>&nbsp;to adopting the goals of the Paris Climate Accord, following President Trump&rsquo;s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/us-politicians-pledge-commitment-to-paris-accord-following-trumps-announcement/70001833?partner=accuweather" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">decision to withdraw</a>&nbsp;the U.S. from the agreement on June 1.</p>
<p>&ldquo;The rest of corporate America is saying it doesn&rsquo;t make much sense for us to live in a dystopian world,&rdquo; said Jeffrey Gracer, principal of Sive, Paget and Riesel, which was the first environmental law firm in the U.S.</p>
<p>&ldquo;We&rsquo;re not going to be able to do business in a world where there&rsquo;s no water, where it&rsquo;s 130 degrees and we can&rsquo;t fly airplanes; that&rsquo;s simply not going to work,&rdquo; said Gracer.</p>
<p>The Global Footprint Network stated that the ecological overspending is reversible.</p>
<p>By pushing the date back about&nbsp;<a href="http://www.overshootday.org/newsroom/press-release-english/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">five days each year</a>, the population would return to using the resources of a single planet by 2050.</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/baby-boomers-millennials-climate-change-generations-2017-7" >Baby Boomers could irreversibly ruin the planet for Millennials — and the clock is ticking</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/earth-overshoot-day-2017-resources-used-up-2017-8#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/time-lapse-videos-satellite-images-united-states-infrastructure-change-2017-7">Amazing time-lapses show how much America has changed</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/dog-days-of-summer-phrase-night-sky-2017-7The phrase 'dog days of summer' actually comes from the night skyhttp://www.businessinsider.com/dog-days-of-summer-phrase-night-sky-2017-7
Thu, 13 Jul 2017 16:04:00 -0400Michael Kuhne
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/5967bb9e0976db5e008b4e72-1000/shutterstock627930821.jpg" alt="shutterstock_627930821" data-mce-source="songk/Shutterstock" /></p><p>The days between July 3 and Aug. 11, often referred to as the "dog days of summer" are some of the hottest in the Northern Hemisphere. Contrary to popular thought, the burden these days place upon our beloved, canine companions has nothing to do with the phrase's origin.</p>
<p>Instead, the term "dog days of summer" has deep historical roots dating back thousands of years and is actually intertwined with the movement of the stars.</p>
<p>The ancient Greeks and Romans are thought to have helped coin the term in reference to the star, Sirius, or Dog Star, that rose just before the sun in late July.</p>
<p>Orion's dog rising in the heavens not only marked hotter days, but the star also served as an omen that could bring fever and catastrophe, according to<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="http://news.nationalgeographic.com/2015/07/150710-dog-days-summer-sirius-star-astronomy-weather-language/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">National Geographic</a>.</p>
<p>The position of the stars overhead was an intrinsic part of ancient life, which shaped religious beliefs, marked seasons and even helped people navigate long journeys by land and sea.</p>
<p>Following stars to mark time was like following a calendar, AccuWeather Meteorologist Jim Andrews said.</p>
<p>"Stars will have virtually the same position in the sky at a given time during a solar year," Andrews said.</p>
<p><img src="http://static3.businessinsider.com/image/5967bd15c50c291e008b481d-2048/346778590123da198a2e3k.jpg" alt="34677859012_3da198a2e3_k" data-mce-source="Ed Dunens/Flickr" data-mce-caption="Sirius and Orion in the night sky" data-link="https://www.flickr.com/photos/blachswan/34677859012/in/photolist-UQn6jU-CEtqSZ-92hEnp-REQ1A8-aB8YfL-9kUnGm-72tQbM-DVEnxE-xTdxM-7HEV8i-fbvkEn-ao33yT-92j3f5-kHFUhn-dZzPss-ByZeSZ-63PNtA-jyaMji-7HJR7q-an6Vgm-an6UGd-an6U93-an3uWD-an4FBD-an6VPS-g8zoUd-5x6Qqt-axv5bE-9jVTck-9jW93R-9jVBVg-9rHQ3r-9417hs-9jTneL-an3w8r-9rM78A-9kkbgv-an6k6W-9jUKPi-qEPmSB-9rLRWm-9rLHhu-68uo2T-9jTXoQ-axsoUK-9jQE9e-artCZb-7LdeLp-9eQrTy-9jQHjg" /></p>
<p>"So it was that, some thousands of years ago, people learned to use the night sky to track the seasons," he said. "The Dog Star came into position at the time of the expected onset of the hottest season of the solar year."</p>
<p>Sirius was not just an important marker of summer days for the Greeks and Romans, but also served the ancient Egyptians nearly 5000 years ago, according to<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.space.com/8946-dog-days-summer-celestial-origin.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Space.com</a>.</p>
<p>Rising just before the sun around June 25 in ancient Egypt, the "Nile Star" marked the return of annual floodwaters overflowing the Nile River. Its appearance signified a time for irrigation and renewed fertility in the surrounding lands, according to the report.</p>
<p>While the movement of stars was an exceptional means of keeping track of time for ancient people, the accuracy of the "dog days" corresponding with summer heat does not hold true today based on a variety of factors.</p>
<p>Unlike today&rsquo;s solar calendar, the ancient population marked a month&rsquo;s time by the duration of a moon phase. The words month and moon have similar origins in language for this reason.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/5967bf42c50c2938008b4840-716/shutterstock365148032.jpg" alt="shutterstock_365148032" data-mce-source="Skreidzeleu/Shutterstock" data-mce-caption="The Nile Star above the Great Pyramid of Giza" /></p>
<p>The lunar calendar only has about 355 days versus the 365 of the solar calendar.</p>
<p>"Thus, the seasons would happen during different lunar months over a normal human lifetime and thus would not conform to the same lunar month over multiple years," Andrews said. "The 10 to 11 day difference between solar and lunar calendars is the key."</p>
<p>Another reason Sirius's position in the sky does not correspond with the hottest days of the year for some people is because of their latitude, which will change when the astronomical "dog days" occur.</p>
<p>Even now, the "dog days" for the ancient Greeks no longer correspond to the ones of today because of the Earth's movement.</p>
<p>As the Earth spins, it wobbles like a top, which changes the position of the stars depending on which way it is wobbling. Every 26,000 years, the Earth will complete one full cycle of precession.</p>
<p>"What is interesting is that, owing to changes in the rotation of the Earth, or precession, the Dog Star no longer comes into position at the same time of the solar year," Andrews said.</p>
<p>Today, people take the phrase to social media, sharing pictures of dogs basking in summer heat.</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/airplanes-grounded-heatwaves-climate-change-2017-7" >Heat waves will keep more airplanes on the ground in coming years, new research suggests</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/dog-days-of-summer-phrase-night-sky-2017-7#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/massive-fire-burning-florida-georgia-border-2017-5A massive wildfire is burning on the Florida-Georgia borderhttp://www.businessinsider.com/massive-fire-burning-florida-georgia-border-2017-5
Mon, 08 May 2017 13:27:49 -0400Kevin Byrne
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/5910a8fe52b5d89d018b5204-590/download.jpeg" alt="wildfire" data-mce-source="Photo/Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge"></p><p>A massive wildfire burning in the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge near the Florida-Georgia border has prompted mandatory evacuations.</p>
<p>The unincorporated community of St. George, Georgia, was under a mandatory evacuation after the West Mims Fire jumped state Highway 94 and headed towards the area, according to Charlton County, Georgia, government officials.</p>
<p>Schools were closed throughout the county on Monday.</p>
<p>"[First] responders are NOT coming door to door because they are fighting this approaching fire to try to save your homes," Charlton County officials said in a statement.</p>
<p>At least 79 people have been evacuated so far in the community, which has around 2,000 people, the Associated Press <a href="http://hosted2.ap.org/COGRA/54828a5e8d9d48b7ba8b94ba38a9ef22/Article_2017-05-06-US-Wildfire-National-Refuge-The-Latest/id-f65f9b6cf4c149cc8153b3354dffd8a6" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">reported</a>.</p>
<p>The fire has burned over 130,000 acres and was originally caused by a lightning strike on April 6 at the wildlife refuge located in Folkston, Georgia.</p>
<p>Over 535 firefighting personnel have been assigned to fight the blaze, which is 12 percent contained. Firefighting efforts by helicopter were expected to resume by around 7 a.m. EDT Monday.</p>
<p>A tractor plow was overtaken by the fire around 4 p.m. EDT Sunday, but the tractor operator was not injured.</p>
<p>Smoke from the wildfires has been observed on satellite, and the skies around northern Florida and southern Georgia have turned a hazy orange.</p>
<p>A dense smoke advisory is also in effect down to northern Duval County, Florida, near Jacksonville International Airport, the AP reported.</p>
<p>Fire activity was expected to continue at an elevated level on Monday as wind speeds diminish and temperatures rise, according to <a href="https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/article/5153/35214/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">InciWeb</a>.</p>
<p>"The probability of ignition in dry fuels hit with hot embers will be close to 100 percent," InciWeb stated.</p>
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Smoke from the West Mins Fire is heavy in many parts of Nassau. Use caution. Call 911 if you see flames! <a href="https://t.co/nD1gj9eBbI">pic.twitter.com/nD1gj9eBbI</a> </p>— NassauEM (@NassauEM) <a href="https://twitter.com/mims/statuses/860892495651143680">May 6, 2017</a>
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Smoke from the West Mims Fire in GA drifts over the Atlantic in this geocolor imagery from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GOES16?src=hash">#GOES16</a>. See more loops @ <a href="https://t.co/4iH0okInn7">https://t.co/4iH0okInn7</a> <a href="https://t.co/gdexB7vo9K">pic.twitter.com/gdexB7vo9K</a> </p>— NOAA Satellites (@NOAASatellites) <a href="https://twitter.com/mims/statuses/861571662554312709">May 8, 2017</a>
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West Mims smoke column from Bryceville on us 301 looking north <a href="https://twitter.com/NassauEM">@NassauEM</a> <a href="https://t.co/7GiBi6zUf9">pic.twitter.com/7GiBi6zUf9</a> </p>— FFS_Jacksonville (@FFS_Jax) <a href="https://twitter.com/mims/statuses/860966170228400128">May 6, 2017</a>
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</div><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/epa-science-board-firing-2017-5" >The EPA just kicked 5 scientists off a key board — and may replace them with fossil fuel industry insiders</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/massive-fire-burning-florida-georgia-border-2017-5#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/wildfire-gatlinburg-tennessee-escape-footage-destroyed-homes-2016-11">Watch a man's dramatic escape from a raging wildfire in Tennessee</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/snow-storm-northeast-nyc-chicago-new-england-2017-3ACCUWEATHER: A major storm may bury the Northeast with heavy snow next weekhttp://www.businessinsider.com/snow-storm-northeast-nyc-chicago-new-england-2017-3
Thu, 09 Mar 2017 13:45:47 -0500Alex Sosnowski
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static6.businessinsider.com/image/58c1a1c0402a6bfb028b5248-590/download 15.jpeg" alt="download (15)" data-mce-source="AccuWeather"></p><p>As Old Man Winter continues to show more teeth in the coming days, a storm could pack a heavy punch of snow and wind in the northeastern United States early next week.</p>
<p>"There is the potential for a major snowstorm, and possible nor'easter, from New York City to New England spanning Tuesday and Tuesday night," according to AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Henry Margusity.</p>
<p>Unlike most of this winter, the storm will have access to plenty of cold air as far south as the coastal mid-Atlantic region. The storm will follow some of the <a href="http://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/waves-of-cold-air-to-plunge-across-midwestern-northeastern-us-into-next-week/70001071" target="_blank">coldest weather of the winter</a> in the Northeast this weekend.</p>
<p>A storm originating from the central Pacific Ocean will spread the first patches of snow in spotty fashion over the northern Plains on Sunday and then the Midwest on Monday.</p>
<p>People should be prepared for travel delays developing over the north-central United States as the weekend draws to a close and the new week begins.</p>
<p>There is the chance of a period of accumulating snow around Chicago from Sunday night into Monday.</p>
<p>Tuesday, the storm is projected to reach the mid-Atlantic coast, where strengthening is likely.</p>
<p>How quickly the storm strengthens and how close to the coast it tracks will determine the western extent of the snow as well as the strength of the wind and severity of coastal flooding.</p>
<p>Disruptions to travel and daily activities may develop from the mid-Atlantic to New England on Tuesday and Tuesday night.</p>
<p>If the storm strengthens slowly upon reaching the Atlantic coast, then only a light amount of snow and mere blustery conditions may develop in the Northeast on Tuesday.</p>
<p>"Regardless, the storm will be a relatively fast-moving system, so while it can bring a half a foot to a foot of snow to some locations, it is not likely to be a blockbuster," Margusity said.</p>
<p>The storm could bring the greatest snowfall of the season to the upper part of the mid-Atlantic, since there have not been giant snowstorms in that area this year.</p>
<p>The biggest storm in New York City was on Feb. 9, when 9.4 inches of snow fell in Central Park.</p>
<p>Parts of New England have been hit by major snowstorms that have delivered from 1 to 2 feet in some locations during February.</p>
<p>In order for heavy snow to extend as far south as eastern Virginia and the Washington, D.C., area, the storm would have to track farther to the south and strengthen quickly along the mid-Atlantic coast. The biggest snowfall in Washington, D.C., this winter was a mere 1 inch that fell on Jan. 30.</p>
<p>For heavy snow to be thrown back across the central Appalachians and eastern Great Lakes region, the storm would have to strengthen very quickly and hug the mid-Atlantic coast. A storm that hugs the coast could pull warm air in from the ocean with a change to rain in the I-95 corridor.</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/scott-pruitt-climate-change-2017-3" >EPA chief claims carbon dioxide is not a primary contributor to climate change, despite scientific consensus</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/snow-storm-northeast-nyc-chicago-new-england-2017-3#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/arctic-sea-ice-thinner-past-26-years-foreboding-animation-noaa-video-2016-12">This startling animation shows how much Arctic sea ice has thinned in just 26 years</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/snow-storm-united-states-christmas-weekend-accuweather-noaa-2016-12A major storm could smack the United States this Christmas weekendhttp://www.businessinsider.com/snow-storm-united-states-christmas-weekend-accuweather-noaa-2016-12
Tue, 20 Dec 2016 12:22:12 -0500Jacqui Frank
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/snow-storm-christmas-day-2016-12" target="_blank">Accuweather</a> is predicting three possible outcomes for a storm heading for the United States this weekend. There are no major weather-related travel delays expected for now, but keep an eye out over the next several days.</p>
<p><strong>Follow BI Video:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://twitter.com/BI_Video" target="_blank">On&nbsp;Twitter</a><span>&nbsp;</span></p><p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/snow-storm-united-states-christmas-weekend-accuweather-noaa-2016-12#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/tuesdays-supermoon-is-about-to-wash-out-the-biggest-meteor-shower-of-the-year-2016-12Tuesday's supermoon is about to wash out the biggest meteor shower of the yearhttp://www.businessinsider.com/tuesdays-supermoon-is-about-to-wash-out-the-biggest-meteor-shower-of-the-year-2016-12
Mon, 12 Dec 2016 13:52:26 -0500Brian Lada
<p><img src="http://static1.businessinsider.com/image/566b3b7172f2c19c108b50aa-878" alt="geminids" data-mce-source="NASA" data-link="https://blogs.nasa.gov/Watch_the_Skies/" /></p><p></p>
<p>The biggest meteor shower of the year peaks on Tuesday night, but cloudy weather and the bright supermoon will create poor viewing conditions.</p>
<p>The Geminid meteor shower, known for producing as many as 120 meteors an hour at its peak, is one of the most popular showers of the year.</p>
<p>"It's usually one of the best opportunities for kids who don't stay up late, because it gets going around 9 or 10 p.m. local time,"<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/jpl/asteroids/best-meteor-showers" target="_blank"> NASA said.</a></p>
<p>Thick clouds will make for poor viewing conditions across many areas of the United States, but it will still be difficult to see meteors in areas where there are few clouds due to the supermoon.</p>
<p>A supermoon is a type of full moon that is larger and brighter than normal. December's supermoon falls on Tuesday night, the same night that the Geminid meteor shower is set to peak.</p>
<p>The light from the supermoon in conjunction with where it sits in the sky will limit the number of meteors people are able to see on Tuesday night.</p>
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/584eee63ca7f0cf3008b5111-590/accuweatherbrightspotcdn.png" alt="accuweather.brightspotcdn" data-mce-source="Accuweather" />The full moon will be right near the radiant point of the Geminids, making it difficult for people to see the dimmer meteors, AccuWeather Meteorologist David Samuhel said.</p>
<p>Onlookers can still expect to see some shooting stars on Tuesday night, but people will see far less than 120 meteors an hour.</p>
<p>Those heading out to try to catch a view of some meteors will start to see some early in the night, but the best time to view the shower will be around 2 a.m. when the radiant point is the highest in the sky.</p>
<p>Onlookers do not need to look directly toward the radiant point to see the meteors, as they should appear in all parts of the sky.</p>
<p>Not only is the Geminid meteor shower known for producing more meteors that any other shower throughout the year, but it is also known to produce multi-colored meteors.</p>
<p>"Geminid meteors can produce a color, usually yellow or orange," the American Meteor Society (AMS) said.</p>
<p>"Fireballs (extremely bright meteors) are common during the Geminids and some of these are intensely green," the AMS said.</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/best-nature-photos-national-geographic-contest-2016-2016-12" >The most incredible nature photos of 2016</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/tuesdays-supermoon-is-about-to-wash-out-the-biggest-meteor-shower-of-the-year-2016-12#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/whats-inside-pimple-pus-bacteria-acne-2017-8">All the nasty things inside a pimple — and why you should stop popping them</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/wildfires-in-tennessee-forced-a-whole-town-to-evacuate-2016-11Wildfires in Tennessee forced a whole town to evacuatehttp://www.businessinsider.com/wildfires-in-tennessee-forced-a-whole-town-to-evacuate-2016-11
Tue, 29 Nov 2016 10:42:07 -0500Brian Lada
<p>The entire town of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, was ordered to evacuate as a wildfire spread over the region early this week.</p>
<p>The evacuation order was issued early on Monday night by the City of Gatlinburg, home to nearly 4,000 people.</p>
<p><div>
<blockquote class="twitter-video" data-lang="en">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Save our beautiful mountains 😩<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gatlinburg?src=hash">#Gatlinburg</a> <a href="https://t.co/RqvOhwuVTL">pic.twitter.com/RqvOhwuVTL</a></p>— Everything TN (@Everything_TN) <a href="https://twitter.com/Everything_TN/status/803427952297934848">November 29, 2016</a>
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<p>The wildfire forced Tennessee Ripley's Aquarium staff to evacuate, leaving over 10,000 animals behind.</p>
<p>The attractions General Manager Ryan DeSear said as long as the building has power and didn't catch fire the animals will be safe. The animals can survive on their own for 24 hours.</p>
<p>At the time of the evacuation flames were about 50 yards away from the aquarium, DeSear said.</p>
<p>Evacuations were also issued for parts of Pigeon Forge and in areas along the Spur and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.</p>
<p>The fire also prompted officials to close and evacuate the Dollywood DreamMore Resort. As of early Tuesday morning, no structures in Dollywood have caught on fire.</p>
<p>As thousands left the town, flames roared nearby.</p>
<p>By around 11:30 p.m. on Monday, <a href="http://wate.com/2016/11/23/4-smokies-trails-again-closed-due-to-another-wildfire/" target="_blank">30 buildings were reported on fire in Gatlinburg, including a 16-story hotel.</a></p>
<p><div>
<blockquote class="twitter-video" data-lang="en">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Save our beautiful mountains 😩<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gatlinburg?src=hash">#Gatlinburg</a> <a href="https://t.co/RqvOhwuVTL">pic.twitter.com/RqvOhwuVTL</a></p>— Everything TN (@Everything_TN) <a href="https://twitter.com/Everything_TN/status/803427952297934848">November 29, 2016</a>
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<p>The fire also led to road and trail closures in parts of the<a href="https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/temproadclose.htm"> Great Smoky National Park</a>.</p>
<p>Schools in Sevier, Cocke and Greene counties announced that classes are canceled for Tuesday in wake of the wildfire.</p>
<p>The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency asked people to stay off cellular devices unless for emergency purposes as to unclog phone lines.</p>
<p>A light rain fell across the area earlier in the night. Additional rounds of rain will occur into Wednesday, which should help emergency crews to combat the fire.</p>
<p>The area around Gatlinburg has been exceptionally dry over the past several weeks, contributing to a heightened risk of wildfires.</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/arctic-ice-melt-north-pole-2016-11" >The Arctic is smashing heat records — and missing enough ice to freeze over 9 states in the US</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/wildfires-in-tennessee-forced-a-whole-town-to-evacuate-2016-11#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/parachuting-directly-into-wildfires-2016-9">Meet the badass fire fighters who parachute directly into the flames</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/earthquake-hurricane-otto-nicaragua-2016-11Central America got hit by an earthquake and a hurricane on the same dayhttp://www.businessinsider.com/earthquake-hurricane-otto-nicaragua-2016-11
Fri, 25 Nov 2016 09:24:51 -0500Brian Lada
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/583848bce02ba760658b5319-720" alt="hurricane otto" data-mce-source="NHC NOAA" /></p><p></p>
<p>A magnitude-7.0 earthquake shook parts of Central America early Thursday afternoon.</p>
<p>The epicenter of the quake hit 149 km (93 miles) south-southwest of Puerto Triunfo, El Salvador, according to the USGS. It was also a shallow quake with a depth of 10 km (6 miles).</p>
<p>Shaking was felt across the entire region, including Managua, the capital of Nicaragua; San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador; and San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica.</p>
<p>Tsunami warnings were issued for coastal areas shortly after the quake warning of waves as large as one meter high; however, the <a href="http://ptwc.weather.gov/text.php?id=pacific.TSUPAC.2016.11.24.2022">Pacific Tsunami Warning Center</a> issued a followup statement saying that the tsunami threat has passed.</p>
<p>Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega declared a state of emergency due to the quake and Hurricane Otto, <a href="http://www.reuters.com/article/us-quake-central-america-idUSKBN13J20A?il=0">Reuters</a> said.</p>
<p>There have not been any immediate reports of injuries or damage.</p>
<p>This earthquake hit shortly after <a href="http://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/tropical-storm-otto-to-threaten-central-america-with-flooding-mudslides-and-damaging-winds/61764453">Hurricane Otto</a> made landfall on the eastern shores of Nicaragua.</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/climate-change-examples-october-2016-11" >11 ways our atmosphere went bonkers this October that you probably didn’t notice</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/earthquake-hurricane-otto-nicaragua-2016-11#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/noaa-pilots-fly-hurricane-matthew-eye-2016-10">Pilots flew straight into Hurricane Matthew and caught this incredible first-hand footage</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/weakening-polar-vortex-longer-harsher-winters-2016-11We might be headed for some harsher wintershttp://www.businessinsider.com/weakening-polar-vortex-longer-harsher-winters-2016-11
Fri, 18 Nov 2016 13:57:05 -0500Michael Kuhne
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/52caaec56bb3f74f54bfebcd-2400/deep-freeze-polar-vortex-5.jpg" alt="Deep freeze polar vortex" data-mce-source="AP" /></p><p>Longer, harsher winters may be in store for the portions of North America as the polar vortex continues to weaken and shifts, according to a new study.</p>
<p>The <a href="http://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/what-is-a-polar-vortex/21793077" target="_blank">polar vortex</a> is a large pocket of frigid air that hovers above the polar regions, and is most prominent in the winter months.</p>
<p>Researchers at China's Lanzhou University penned the <a href="http://www.nature.com/articles/nclimate3136.epdf?referrer_access_token=pX7Xqj22pY5Ti8_8zxBGadRgN0jAjWel9jnR3ZoTv0MkzCzc3z7ZLHX13VkjcRLMAvMosySuuqodqaHrWHQhAY51g2pg56yzacxacAKiOjJuteu81ceDVPD7hOY3JuZaDKBPGP3djXFQ7OCiAR31ioUK4G6lFU6XDb1VwI-AjpZXFyJWsWnT4hkHAv-f97soVbUjiFCeF75Wqfm75OJCcMEbkI-j-aC56KgXct3YKRPmAocKk9iNSyTKjkfJmS67_cNqrSSRQIjw1abPonfCKoegbKtmbAUbOQ1kGiA2zTEd3xbh9Wj0Rk2u0qma2dxdasv9C6Y7-vpPDgbmgP4MGg%3D%3D&amp;tracking_referrer=www.washingtonpost.com" target="_blank">study</a>, which was published in Nature Climate Change last month.</p>
<p>Lanzhou researchers found that a loss of sea ice in the Arctic regions due to rising temperatures in the Barents-Kara seas, along with an increase in snow cover over Europe and Asia, has caused the polar vortex to weaken. The pocket of cold air has in turn shifted toward Eurasia.</p>
<p>This movement could lead to colder and possibly extended winter seasons for portions of North America and Eurasia, according to the study.</p>
<p>"With warming and ridging in the Kara Sea, this typically allows for less ice cover but also is a conducive atmospheric pattern for lower temperatures in the North American mid-latitudes," AccuWeather Meteorologist Edward Vallee said.</p>
<p>The polar vortex in winter can extend well into the atmosphere and at times be more than 100,000 feet deep, AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Bob Smerbeck said.</p>
<p>A weaker polar vortex allows the stratosphere, or a distant part of the Earth's atmosphere, to warm, while a stronger one prevents that process, according to Vallee.</p>
<p>"The stratospheric vortex typically governs the tropospheric vortex [in the lower part of the Earth's atmosphere] during the winter months and is based on polar heating and cooling," Vallee said.</p>
<p>"As the stratosphere warms in winter, it can reverse the wind direction below it," he said.</p>
<p>This could block high pressure systems from taking shape in the high latitudes of the Earth, which would increase opportunities for cold in the mid-latitudes.</p>
<p>According to Smerbeck, the southern shift could bring the other end of the polar vortex toward eastern North America, yielding colder winters for the region.</p>
<p>"There are other factors that determine where the vortex sets up," Smerbeck said. "The warm blob over the north Pacific in winter 2013-2014 and the unusually warm waters along the west coast of North America [for the] 2014-2015 winter contributed to a southward dip in the vortex across eastern North America and cold winters in the central and eastern U.S."</p>
<p><img src="http://static3.businessinsider.com/image/56437942bd86ef1b008c920c-2400/ap139374493118.jpg" alt="Deep freeze polar vortex" data-mce-source="AP" />Smerbeck said there is a lot of research still being conducted, and that while some researchers may not find the latest study overly convincing, a mechanical connection between the lack of sea ice and the vortex shift as opposed to just a statistical connection should allow for more accurate modeling.</p>
<p>At times during the winter, a warm layer of air will develop high up near the stratosphere over eastern Asia and head toward the stratospheric vortex causing it to weaken by being pinched, displaced or even split. This will cause a portion of the stratospheric vortex to extend farther south.</p>
<p>A stronger polar vortex will hold the cold air northward. When it weakens and shifts away from the pole either by squeezing, splitting or displacement, it will drag cold air with it, Smerbeck added.</p>
<p>"Reduced sea ice over the Barents-Kara seas in the fall leads to a storm track that can increase snow cover over Eurasia and Siberia," he said.</p>
<p>"It has been shown that increases in Eurasian and Siberian snow cover in the fall can launch upper-level warming events that reach into the stratosphere and weaken the stratospheric polar vortex," he said, stating that this Arctic warming can weaken and alter the placement of the polar vortex.</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/2-million-year-record-earths-climate-2016-9" >A new 2-million-year history of our planet has some worrying news about the future</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>DON'T MISS:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/why-avocados-expensive-now-2016-11" >Avocado prices just hit a record high, and show no signs of coming down. Here's why</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/weakening-polar-vortex-longer-harsher-winters-2016-11#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/the-7-people-arya-stark-kill-list-game-of-thrones-hbo-deaths-prayer-2017-8">Here's everyone left on Arya Stark's kill list on 'Game of Thrones'</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/black-moon-friday-rise-2016-9A rare 'Black Moon' will rise this Friday. Here's what that meanshttp://www.businessinsider.com/black-moon-friday-rise-2016-9
Mon, 26 Sep 2016 14:41:00 -0400Brian Lada
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static1.businessinsider.com/image/57e16d37b0ef975f148b6d01-1200/mariner-10-earth-moon-space-1973-pia02441.jpg" alt="mariner 10 earth moon space 1973 PIA02441" data-mce-source="NASA/JPL/Northwestern University" data-mce-caption="A combination of two photos (one of Earth and one of the moon) taken by NASA's Mariner 10 spacecraft on Nov. 3, 1973." data-link="http://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA02441" /></p><p>The final day of September will bring a rare lunar event that hasn't occurred since March of 2014, a Black Moon.</p>
<p>The term Black Moon has several definitions, but one of the most common definitions is the second new moon in a calendar month. This is similar to the well-known Blue Moon, which is the name given to the second full moon in a calendar month.</p>
<p>Since it is a new moon, it will not be a visible event as the side of the moon that is illuminated will be facing away from the Earth.</p>
<p>The last time that two new moons fell in the same month was March of 2014.</p>
<p>While some areas of the world, such as the United States, experience a Black Moon in September, it will not be the case for the entire world.</p>
<p>"It's the second new moon this month in all of the Americas, but not in Europe and points east from there," said Bob Berman, an astronomer for Slooh.</p>
<p>This is because the new moon occurs at 8:11 p.m. EDT on Sept. 30, so for areas in the Eastern Hemisphere, the new moon will officially occur after the calendar flips to October.</p>
<p>However, these areas will not miss out on a Black Moon. Another new moon will occur at the end of the month, giving the Eastern Hemisphere a Black Moon right around Halloween.</p>
<p>While this type of Black Moon happens about once every two and a half years, there are several other lunar events that fall under the same name.</p>
<p>Another type of Black Moon is when there are no new moons in a month. These can only happen in February and occur once every five to 10 years, said Berman.</p>
<p>"The phrase could also mean the third new moon when there are four in a season, which is actually also one of the definitions of a Blue Moon when the same thing happens to a full moon," Berman added.</p>
<p>The next time that two new moons will fall in the same month for the Western Hemisphere will be in July of 2019.</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/2-million-year-record-earths-climate-2016-9" >A new 2-million-year history of our planet has some worrying news about the future</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/black-moon-friday-rise-2016-9#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/annoying-resume-mistakes-buzzwords-grammar-typos-experience-careers-strategy-jobs-interview-application-employer-2017-7">A former HR exec who reviewed over 40,000 résumés says these 7 résumé mistakes annoy her</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/hottest-weather-of-the-summer-yet-in-store-for-central-us-2016-7The hottest weather of the summer so far will hit the central US next weekhttp://www.businessinsider.com/hottest-weather-of-the-summer-yet-in-store-for-central-us-2016-7
Thu, 14 Jul 2016 11:59:07 -0400Alex Sosnowski
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/5787b52788e4a7d9068b8006-650/650x366_07141347_hd23.jpg" alt="650x366_07141347_hd23" data-mce-source="Accuweather.com" data-link="http://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/hottest-weather-of-the-summer-yet-in-store-for-central-us-next-week/58785733" /></p><p>Triple-digit heat will surge into the central US next week, dominating areas from Texas to Minnesota.</p>
<p>"Heat will build to dangerous levels and bring the highest temperatures of the summer so far to many areas of the central United States later next week," according to AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Meteorologist Paul Pastelok.</p>
<p>The heat wave will be dangerous and could even be life-threatening if proper precautions are not taken. Pets, the elderly, children and anyone with respiratory or cardiovascular disease are most vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.</p>
<p>Even healthy individuals who physically exert themselves and fail to take precautions in the upcoming conditions could succumb to dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.</p>
<p>Temperatures will climb well into the 90s F with high humidity across North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky on multiple days.</p>
<p>Highs of 100 or higher are in store from Texas and Louisiana to South Dakota and Iowa during one or more days from next Wednesday to next Sunday.</p>
<p>The highest temperatures of the summer yet and the first 100-degree readings are in store for locations such as Des Moines, Iowa; Omaha, Nebraska, Huron, South Dakota; Little Rock, Arkansas; Shreveport, Louisiana; Nashville; Oklahoma City; St. Louis; and Dallas.</p>
<p>AccuWeather RealFeel&reg; Temperatures will average 5-10 degrees higher than the actual temperature and could be 10-20 degrees higher in some cases, especially during the midday and afternoon hours. This means that how warm it really feels outside could range between 115 and 120 in some locations for a time.</p>
<p>The RealFeel Temperature factors in many weather variables, when compared to the heat index, which takes into consideration only the temperature and humidity.</p>
<p><span>People should seek relief from the heat by spending time in an air-conditioned environment. If air conditioning is not available, a fan and cool showers or baths can provide some relief.</span></p>
<p>Those who must work in the heat should increase their intake of water and take breaks in the shade as much as possible.</p>
<p>Where hard manual labor is necessary, consider doing the task during the early mornings or during the evening in order to avoid the peak heat of the day.</p>
<p>Remember never to leave children or pets unattended in vehicles. Temperatures inside a vehicle, even with windows partially down, can reach lethal levels in a matter of minutes.</p>
<p>On average, 130 people die each year in the U.S. due to heat-related issues, according to the<a href="http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/hazstats/resources/weather_fatalities.pdf" target="_blank">National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)</a>. More people die each year from heat than cold waves, lightning, tornadoes, hurricanes, floods or hurricanes.</p>
<p>On a positive note, the weather pattern will offer an excellent opportunity to hit swimming holes, lakes or pools.</p>
<p>While occasional thunderstorms will affect portions of the northern Plains, Great Lakes and the Ohio Valley, most areas will be free of rain. <a href="http://www.accuweather.com/en/us/detroit-mi/48226/minute-weather-forecast/348755" target="_blank">AccuWeather MinuteCast&reg;</a> can be of short-term assistance for planning outdoor activities.</p>
<p>"Later next weekend into the end of July, the core of the heat will settle westward toward the Rockies," Pastelok said.</p>
<p>Before the end of July, temperatures will throttle back, and thunderstorms may become more frequent in parts of the region.</p>
<p>"However, even with another pattern shift later in the month, temperatures may still average above normal over much of the Plains and part of the Midwest," Pastelok said.</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/climate-change-is-shifting-the-worlds-clouds-2016-7" >The world's clouds are shifting, but not in a good way</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>DON'T MISS:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/the-us-will-be-uncrecognizable-in-100-years" >The US will be totally unrecognizable by the end of this century</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/hottest-weather-of-the-summer-yet-in-store-for-central-us-2016-7#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/first-major-heat-wave-of-summer-slam-east-coast-2016-7">The first major heat wave of the summer is about to slam the East Coast — here's what you can expect</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/first-major-heat-wave-of-summer-slam-east-coast-2016-7The first major heat wave of the summer is about to slam the East Coast — here's what you can expecthttp://www.businessinsider.com/first-major-heat-wave-of-summer-slam-east-coast-2016-7
Wed, 06 Jul 2016 18:55:00 -0400Jacqui Frank and Jessica Orwig
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<p dir="ltr"><span>The first major heat wave of the summer in the US is predicted to have temperatures 5 degrees to 10 degrees above normal in the Southeast and temperatures in the 90s in the Northeast.</span></p>
<p><em>Produced by <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/author/jacqui-frank" target="_blank">Jacqui Frank</a>. Original reporting by Jessica Orwig.<br></em></p>
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<p dir="ltr"><span> </span></p><p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/first-major-heat-wave-of-summer-slam-east-coast-2016-7#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/weekend-northeast-heat-blast-2015-5The Northeast is about to get a blast of July-like heathttp://www.businessinsider.com/weekend-northeast-heat-blast-2015-5
Thu, 07 May 2015 11:39:00 -0400Alex Sosnowski
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static6.businessinsider.com/image/554b83056bb3f79710881fce-650-366/650x366_05051230_hd14.jpg" border="0" alt="heat wave"></p><p>Following a dip in temperature during the middle of the week, summerlike warmth will rebound across much of the Northeast through this weekend.</p>
<p>Clouds with showers and thunderstorms took the edge off the warmth that surged in to start the week. The moisture was associated with a cool front that stalled and eroded at midweek, resulting in only spotty rainfall.</p>
<p>Mother Nature will be turning up the thermostat a bit more.</p>
<p>High pressure will build at most levels of the atmosphere late this week and into the weekend. The high will keep <a href="http://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/tropical-system-atlantic-us-east-coast/46620439">a budding tropical system</a> at bay along the southern Atlantic coast.</p>
<p>According to meteorologist Ben Noll: "This will be a summer-weather regime in much of the Northeast this weekend with temperatures 10, 20 degrees above average for this time of the year."</p>
<p>People will be able to ditch umbrellas and break out the sunglasses, shorts, and short sleeves just as they did this past weekend and early this week.</p>
<p>Only northern New England will miss out on the warmth, relative to the rest of the region, because of more persistent clouds and spotty showers.</p>
<p>"Humidity will become a factor across the Northeast this weekend into early next week," Noll said.</p>
<p>The uptick in humidity can approach levels more typical of late June or early July.</p>
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/554b83f86da811c4624f7fa0-650-366/650x366_05051456_hd32.jpg" border="0" alt="weekend humidity">The higher humidity levels could make the weather feel more uncomfortable, with more people reaching to turn on the air conditioning or fans. Higher humidity levels will also translate to warmer nights, with lows in the 60s in most urban areas.</p>
<p>Actual temperatures on Monday surged past the 80-degree mark in Boston for the first time since September and could touch 80 this weekend.</p>
<p>Farther south and west, highs will be in the 80s in New York City, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Burlington, Vermont, and Albany, New York.</p>
<p>"It's possible some locations in the mid-Atlantic states touch 90 this weekend, especially around Washington, D.C., and Baltimore," Noll said.</p>
<p>The only cool spots will be right along the coast, because of local sea breezes.</p>
<p>AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperatures can be as much as 10 degrees higher than the actual temperature from the late morning into the afternoon hours, factoring in humidity, sunshine, and other conditions.</p>
<p>If you will be partaking in work outdoors or vigorous exercise, be sure to drink plenty of water and take breaks from the sun. Give your body a chance to acclimate to the summerlike weather, especially following the rough winter and chilly first part of spring.</p>
<p>Despite the warmth, record-breaking heat is not likely in most areas this weekend with records in the 90s, Noll stated. There could be a few exceptions.</p>
<p>For people planning to head to the ocean or take a dip in area lakes, water temperatures are still dangerously chilly this time of the year. The cold water could put you at risk for hypothermia, muscle cramps, and drowning.</p>
<p>For a few days next week, the high-pressure area will be replaced by a pocket of cold air aloft, along with clouds, showers and thunderstorms.</p>
<p>"The pattern will result in cooler air, relative to most days this week, but temperatures may dip to near or slightly below average average levels," Noll said.</p>
<p>As the system causing the clouds and showers moves away during the middle days of next week, the air will get chilly at night over the interior Northeast and part of the Upper Midwest. At this time, however, it appears the air will not be cold enough for widespread damaging frost.</p>
<p>Around the middle of the month, high pressure will again build at most levels of the atmosphere, which will in turn cause warmth to build.</p>
<p>The pattern through much of the month will favor below-average precipitation in much of the Northeast.</p>
<p>"An elevated brush fire risk will continue" where it does not rain or rains very little, Noll said.</p>
<p>People should use caution when using outdoor power equipment, campfires, and grills. Avoid parking over dry brush and leaves. The hot exhaust from your vehicle could be enough to start a fire.</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/cold-weather-doesnt-discredit-climate-change-2014-11" >Why cold weather doesn't mean climate change isn't real </a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/weekend-northeast-heat-blast-2015-5#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/why-meteorologists-often-wrong-weather-nate-silver-2015-3">Nate Silver explains why meteorologists get the weather forecast so wrong</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/record-heat-is-coming-to-california-2015-3Drought-stricken California can’t catch a break — record heat is about to hit the statehttp://www.businessinsider.com/record-heat-is-coming-to-california-2015-3
Fri, 27 Mar 2015 15:36:40 -0400Brian Lada
<p><img class="full" src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/5515acbf6da8118741f619bd-1200-676/650x366_03270955_hd7.jpg" border="0" alt="650x366_03270955_hd7"></p><p>The mercury will be on the rise across California through the end of the week, challenging records across much of the state and helping to intensify the ongoing drought.</p>
<p>Records could fall from Redding to Sacramento and across the Southern Californian cities of Los Angeles and San Diego.</p>
<p>This heat wave will be similar to the one that occurred around the middle of March, but temperatures are expected to reach higher levels this time around.</p>
<p>Afternoon highs are forecast to rise well into the 80s across the Sacramento Valley to right around the 90-degree mark in the San Joaquin Valley on Friday.</p>
<p>The hottest weather will focus across the inland areas of Southern California and the deserts where highs will top out well in the 90s to near 100 F.</p>
<p>While some may enjoy the warmth, it will bring dangers to those across the Golden State.</p>
<p>Anyone planning to spend time in the outdoors should take the proper precautions to stay protected from the sun and the heat. This includes measures such as drinking enough water to wearing sunblock and lighter colored clothing.</p>
<p>It is important to never leave children or pets in vehicles during heat waves, even if the windows are cracked.</p>
<p>The windows of a vehicle act similar to that of a greenhouse, trapping the heat and making the temperature spike to dangerous levels in just a matter of minutes.</p>
<p>This can put the lives of children and pets at risk if left unattended in a vehicle for a long enough period of time.</p>
<p>The late-week heat is expected to moderate heading into the weekend, but temperatures will still remain above normal on Saturday and Sunday.</p>
<p>Even though the heat won't be as extreme as Thursday and Friday, people are still advised to use caution when spending time in the outdoors.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, this weather pattern will only worsen the extreme drought conditions gripping a majority of the state.</p>
<p>While recent storms have delivered rain to northern portions of the state, these storms have largely missed central and southern portions of California.</p>
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/5485d5a9eab8ea2128249c03-600-400/reservoir-california-drought-6.jpg" border="0" alt="reservoir california drought">As a result, 93 percent of the state is experiencing a severe drought and 40 percent of the state is experiencing an exceptional drought, according to the <a href="http://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/Home/StateDroughtMonitor.aspx?CA">U.S. Drought Monitor</a>.</p>
<p>Heat waves such as the one late this week can lead to what is known as a positive feedback loop. In this case, the hot weather dries out the ground due to evaporation. That results in a lesser chance of rain which in turn causes more heat to build.</p>
<p>This is not good news for the drought, especially since California is getting ready to enter their dry season.</p>
<p>"Now that a great portion of the rainfall season is in the rear view mirror, the writing is on the wall," said AccuWeather.com Western Weather Expert Ken Clark.</p>
<p>Clark continued by saying, "The only good news is that major reservoirs are at a higher level of storage right now compared to last year."</p>
<p>Looking ahead through the rest of March and into the first week of April, it does not look like any storms will deliver meaningful rain to the Southwest.</p>
<p>The weather pattern would have to undergo a major flip for California to see enough rain to put a noticeable dent in the drought before heading into the summer.</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/jon-stewart-florida-climate-change-insanity-2015-3" >Watch Jon Stewart ridicule Florida and California's incompetent responses to climate change</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/record-heat-is-coming-to-california-2015-3#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/bill-nye-climate-change-solution-2014-11">Bill Nye Reveals Why Climate Change Is So Hard To Stop</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/allergy-season-will-be-awful-2015-3Allergy season is coming, and it’s going to be an awful onehttp://www.businessinsider.com/allergy-season-will-be-awful-2015-3
Thu, 26 Mar 2015 17:19:10 -0400Jillian MacMath
<p>Though springlike weather has been slow to arrive for much of the Eastern United States, allergy sufferers may soon pay the price for winter's unhurried retreat.</p>
<p>Prolonged winter weather, like much of the Northeast has seen, can sometimes delay the start of tree pollination, according to Dr. Mauli Desai, division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.</p>
<p>Delayed pollination ultimately delays the onset of spring allergies, but that doesn't mean the season will be mild overall:</p>
<p><img class="full" src="http://static5.businessinsider.com/image/5514742b69bedd62293654b3-800-450/650x366_03261204_screen-shot-2015-03-26-at-8.04.16-am.png" border="0" alt="allergy map"></p>
<p>"This year sets up a lot like last year, especially with the late warmup," AccuWeather.com Meteorologist Alan Reppert said.&nbsp;<span style="line-height: 1.5em;">"It will probably be a delayed pollen season, but it will be quick-hitting and rough when it does arrive in the East."</span></p>
<p><strong>The lingering cold air could push the peak of the season back until June,</strong> according to Reppert.&nbsp;<span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Additionally, stormy weather forecast for the region this spring will be a double-edged sword for the allergy-prone.</span></p>
<p>"Rain will wash out some of the pollen, mitigating allergic symptoms, but it'll also allow more to grow," Reppert said.</p>
<p>According to Desai, allergy sufferers will feel more symptoms on warm, breezy and dry days, where the pollen count is high.&nbsp;<span style="line-height: 1.5em;">In the Midwest, late-March temperatures are running closer to normal, allowing the season to start on time.&nbsp;</span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Precipitation is forecast to be slightly below normal for the region, however, keeping the allergens at bay.&nbsp;</span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Areas from from Philadelphia on southward to Virginia, the Carolinas and Georgia should brace for a potentially severe season.</span></p>
<p>"Those with allergies may already be feeling it in the Southeast, with the season set to peak in April," Reppert said.</p>
<p>For the mid-Atlantic, the harshest conditions could hold off until late April and May.</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/difference-between-cold-flu-allergies-2014-12" >How to figure out whether you have a cold, the flu, or allergies</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/allergy-season-will-be-awful-2015-3#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/why-meteorologists-often-wrong-weather-nate-silver-2015-3">Nate Silver explains why meteorologists get the weather forecast so wrong</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/awesome-shots-of-wave-clouds-rolling-through-georgia-2015-3Awesome shots of 'wave' clouds rolling through Georgiahttp://www.businessinsider.com/awesome-shots-of-wave-clouds-rolling-through-georgia-2015-3
Wed, 25 Mar 2015 14:37:42 -0400Katy Galimberti
<p><img class="Full" src="http://static6.businessinsider.com/image/5512fe386da8116b7154c535-1200-676/650x366_03231717_screen-shot-2015-03-23-at-1.16.42-pm.png" border="0" alt="650x366_03231717_screen shot 2015 03 23 at 1.16.42 pm"></p><p>For those enjoying a Sunday afternoon outdoors in Savannah, Georgia, a swath of asperatus clouds, or wave clouds, graced the skies with an impressive display.</p>
<p>Formed with an appearance that simulates rolling and crashing waves, the clouds filled area skies around noon EDT Sunday, March 22.</p>
<p><img class="Full" src="http://static5.businessinsider.com/image/5512fe376bb3f7b03de713cd-1200-676/650x366_03231713_screen-shot-2015-03-23-at-1.12.37-pm.png" border="0" alt="650x366_03231713_screen shot 2015 03 23 at 1.12.37 pm">"Asperatus clouds form on the outside of precipitation areas, where the rain attempts to invade dry air," AccuWeather.com Meteorologist Jesse Ferrell said.</p>
<p>The unique cloud formation can also appear deceptively ominous as the accompanying darkness and bulky shape do not always indicate a storm.</p>
<p><img class="Full" src="http://static5.businessinsider.com/image/5512fe37ecad049d1badc587-1200-676/650x366_03231714_screen-shot-2015-03-23-at-1.13.56-pm.png" border="0" alt="650x366_03231714_screen shot 2015 03 23 at 1.13.56 pm">"The clouds seemed to have formed on the leading edge of some rain approaching from the west and south," AccuWeather.com Meteorologist Alex Sosnowski said. "Light rain was developing in the area between 11 a.m. and noon."</p>
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Best <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Undulatus?src=hash">#Undulatus</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Asperatus?src=hash">#Asperatus</a> (wave) clouds pic from Sunday here in Pooler. Taken by Amanda Lynn near <a href="https://twitter.com/SAVHHIairport">@SAVHHIairport</a>. <a href="http://t.co/IiE4mxDfFA">pic.twitter.com/IiE4mxDfFA</a> </p>— Matt Devitt (@WSAVMattDevitt) <a href="https://twitter.com/mims/statuses/580039464518619136">March 23, 2015</a>
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<p>Have questions, comments, or a story to share? Email Katy Galimberti at <a href="mailto:kathryn.galimberti@accuweather.com">kathryn.galimberti@accuweather.com</a>, follow her on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/accukaty" target="_blank">@AccuKaty</a>. Follow us<a href="https://twitter.com/breakingweather" target="_blank">@breakingweather</a>, or on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AccuWeather?ref=br_tf">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://plus.google.com/+accuweather/posts">Google+</a>.</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/creepy-dancing-cloud-gifs-2013-7" >What are these mysteriously creepy dancing clouds?</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/heres-how-volcano-lightning-happens-2015-3" >Here’s how the incredible phenomenon of 'volcano lightning' happens</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/awesome-shots-of-wave-clouds-rolling-through-georgia-2015-3#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/why-meteorologists-often-wrong-weather-nate-silver-2015-3">Nate Silver explains why meteorologists get the weather forecast so wrong</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/the-northeast-is-going-to-get-blasted-by-another-snowstorm-on-friday-2015-3The Northeast is going to get blasted by another snowstorm on Fridayhttp://www.businessinsider.com/the-northeast-is-going-to-get-blasted-by-another-snowstorm-on-friday-2015-3
Thu, 19 Mar 2015 14:44:00 -0400Jordan Root
<p>Although the calendar says that spring arrives on Friday, a blast of cold air is set to delay the season's warmer conditions across the East.</p>
<p>A last-minute snowstorm across the Northeast on Friday will appropriately bring astronomical winter to an end before the official season change to spring occurs at 6:45 p.m. EDT.</p>
<p>As that storm departs over the weekend and merges with another system across Canada, a rush of cold air will charge into the Great Lakes and Northeast and delay spring for millions of people.</p>
<p><img src="http://static3.businessinsider.com/image/550b1776eab8ea1f140069ee-650-366/650x366_03190739_hd31.jpg" border="0" alt="Accuweather 2"></p>
<p>High temperatures are expected to tumble as a cold front sweeps in over the weekend, falling 5 F to 15 F below the normal for this time of the year on Sunday.</p>
<p>Cities such as Detroit, Pittsburgh, Washington, D.C., Buffalo, New York City, Philadelphia and Boston will all face the chilly drop in temperature.</p>
<p>Overnight lows late this weekend into early next week will again dip back to below freezing in the I-95 corridor from Baltimore to Boston. Locations across the Appalachians will drop down into teens and perhaps the single digits in the coldest valleys.</p>
<p>According to AccuWeather.com Meteorologist Evan Duffey, while February was a record cold month for many, March has been more of a mixed-bag when it comes to mild and chilly days.<br>"New York City and most places in the Northeast will see the coldest air since March 7 return to the region," said Duffey.<br><br>Any snow that melts during the day due to the increasingly stronger March sun angle will be at risk for freezing into black ice at night. Motorists are urged to travel with caution.</p>
<p><img src="http://static3.businessinsider.com/image/550b177669beddac060069ee-650-366/650x366_03190740_hd30.jpg" border="0" alt="Accuweather 1"></p>
<p>The cold air will even reach the Carolinas by the start of the new week. After reaching the upper 60s and lower 70s over the weekend, highs in the 50s will be felt for many on Monday in North Carolina.</p>
<p>High pressure will allow for some sunshine Sunday and into the new workweek, which will help in some ways.</p>
<p>"Longer daylight hours and strengthening sunshine will negate some of the chill," said AccuWeather.com Meteorologist Alex Sosnowski.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, a long-lasting warm spell is not in the forecast anytime soon as more waves of cold air will continue to move in.</p>
<p>"Below-average temperatures are likely to outnumber warmer-than-average days by at least two to one from the Upper Midwest to the Northeast through early April," said Sosnowski.</p>
<p>Normal temperatures are now increasing about a degree every few days, which is something to look forward. The worst of the cold is now in the rearview mirror as the spring season settles in.</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-see-solar-eclipse-2015-from-us-2015-3" >On Friday Europe will get to see a spectacular solar eclipse — here's how to watch if you're not there</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/the-northeast-is-going-to-get-blasted-by-another-snowstorm-on-friday-2015-3#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/new-england-power-outages-2014-11">Look How Badly New England Was Hit By The Monster Thanksgiving Storm</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/winter-storm-brings-snow-1500-miles-2015-3Another storm about to dump snow and sleet from Texas to Massachusettshttp://www.businessinsider.com/winter-storm-brings-snow-1500-miles-2015-3
Wed, 04 Mar 2015 14:37:00 -0500Alex Sosnowski
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/54f759356da8114a1b502140-1032-581/screen%20shot%202015-03-04%20at%202.09.40%20pm.png" border="0" alt="New Winter Storm"></p><p>A new storm will spread a swath of snow and sleet spanning more than 1,500 miles from northern Texas and Oklahoma to southeastern New York state and Massachusetts during Wednesday into Thursday.</p>
<p>Daily activities will be affected for close to 100 million people.</p>
<p>Major travel disruptions are in store, ranging from snow-clogged roads to many flight delays and cancellations. The flight disruptions will likely extend well beyond areas directly affected by the storm as crews and aircraft are displaced.</p>
<p>The atmosphere is gearing up for a rare event. The new winter storm will occur during a press of cold air invading the Central and Eastern states in the wake <a href="http://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/ice-flooding-to-target-midwest/43118392">a storm that produced snow and ice Tuesday night and rain Wednesday</a>.</p>
<p>According to AccuWeather.com Chief Meteorologist Elliot Abrams, "Usually when cold air follows a storm, the atmosphere just dries out."</p>
<p><img class="full" src="http://static5.businessinsider.com/image/54f758bdeab8ead336fc5af9-1031-580/screen shot 2015-03-04 at 2.09.28 pm.png" border="0" alt="New Winter Storm">"Instead of a sweep of cold, dry air, we get the cold, but not the dry this time."</p>
<p>Rain will change to snow and sleet along much of the 1,500-mile swath as the new storm rides northeastward.</p>
<p>While snowfall will be light in northern Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas, the snow will fall heavily at times from the middle part of the Mississippi Valley to the Ohio Valley, central Appalachians and mid-Atlantic coast.</p>
<p><img class="full" src="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/54f759356da8114a1b502140-1032-581/screen shot 2015-03-04 at 2.09.40 pm.png" border="0" alt="New Winter Storm">A large part of Kentucky and West Virginia will receive 6 inches of snow with locally higher amounts possible. This same 6-inch swath will also reach eastward across southern Pennsylvania and into New Jersey.</p>
<p>The snow will be wet and clinging in nature initially. This will weigh down trees and could lead to power outages.</p>
<p>Despite the lighter amount of snow forecast from Oklahoma City and Wichita, Kansas, to Little Rock, Arkansas, and Nashville, enough will fall, along with plunging temperatures to create slippery travel.</p>
<p>A key to how nasty road conditions get will depend on several factors.</p>
<p>"Where the snow falls during the late-night and early-morning hours, where it snows hard at any time or where sleet falls during part of the storm, roads are likely to be at their worst," Abrams said.</p>
<p>Light snow typically struggles to accumulate during the midday hours in March, even with temperatures below freezing. This is due to some of the sun's rays penetrating through the clouds.</p>
<p>Some of the snow will fall from late Wednesday night to Thursday morning in the heavily populated Interstate-95 corridor from Washington, D.C., and Baltimore to Philadelphia and New York City. Motorists should be prepared for a slippery Thursday commute.</p>
<p>A heavy rate of snow can overcome the March sun effect. Some areas will receive snowfall at the rate of 1-2 inches per hour, which is more than enough to cover roads during the middle of the day.</p>
<p>Pockets of sleet will occur along the long swath of wintry precipitation.</p>
<p>"Sleet, similar to hail, is very dense and can take much more heat away from road surface temperatures, compared to snow," Abrams said.</p>
<p>On the southern edge of the heavy snow, an icy mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain will coat roads and sidewalks.</p>
<p><img class="full" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/54f75978eab8eace36fc5af8-1032-580/screen shot 2015-03-04 at 2.09.50 pm.png" border="0" alt="New Winter Storm">Areas from Dallas to Shreveport, Louisiana; Tupelo, Mississippi; Huntsville, Alabama; and Chattanooga, Tennessee; could receive a slippery, but small amount of wintry mix from the storm.</p>
<p>In addition to travel problems directly associated with precipitation, a <a href="http://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/arctic-air-to-return-to-east-m/43325124">brief but significant push of arctic air near the tail end of the storm</a> will cause areas of standing water and slush to freeze.</p>
<p>In some cases, the freeze-up will not wait until Thursday night. Because of this government cleanup, crews and property owners may want to remove the snow and treat surfaces as soon as possible on Thursday.</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/boston-blizzard-challenge-snow-diving-dangers-2015-2" >Insane videos of people in Boston endangering their lives by jumping out of windows into snow banks</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/earth-30-years-above-average-temperature-2015-3" >We’ve had 30 straight years of above-average temperatures</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/winter-storm-brings-snow-1500-miles-2015-3#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/end-fall-demise-mayan-civilization-new-evidence-2015-1">Scientists Discovered What Actually Wiped Out The Mayan Civilization</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/why-the-us-still-hasnt-converted-from-fahrenheit-to-celsius-2015-2Why the US still hasn't converted from Fahrenheit to Celsiushttp://www.businessinsider.com/why-the-us-still-hasnt-converted-from-fahrenheit-to-celsius-2015-2
Fri, 27 Feb 2015 15:51:34 -0500Rachelle Gaynor
<p><img style="float:right;" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/54efa8c96da8119f1ad8fa88-600-450/fahrenheit-celsius-comparison.png" border="0" alt="Fahrenheit Celsius comparison"></p><p>The United States is the only major industrialized country in the world that does not use the Celsius scale and the metric system as its predominant system of measurement, according to a report released by the National Institute of Standards and Technology.</p>
<p>"One of the strengths of the SI, International System of Units, commonly known as the metric system, is its simplicity and ease of use," according to NIST Metric Conversion Subject Matter Expert Elizabeth Gentry.</p>
<p>One of the factors that makes the Celsius scale seemingly easier to use is that most of the common temperature reference points are simpler and easier to remember when converted to Celsius.</p>
<p>For people that find it easier to actually calculate the conversion from Fahrenheit to Celsius, there is a relatively simple formula.</p>
<p>You take the degree Fahrenheit that you want to convert, subtract 32, then multiply by 5/9.There have been multiple attempts made to convert the United States over to the metric system in the past.<img src="http://static5.businessinsider.com/image/54efa84169bedd8964d8fa89-1024-520/metric system map.png" border="0" alt="Metric system map">Congress passed the Metric Conversion Act of 1975 in order to increase the use of the metric system in the United States.</p>
<p>However, the Act called for a process of voluntary conversion, meaning that it is at the discretion of the American public to convert to the metric system.</p>
<p>"Because the U.S. Congress determined that metric system use would be voluntary, we anticipate the transition process to continue gradually, punctuated by increased use as consumers build familiarity with SI measurements," Gentry said.</p>
<p>There are many options available that can help increase familiarity with using metric temperature measurements.</p>
<p>Many online sources are now offering "dual" unit options, which offer temperature information in both Fahrenheit and Celsius. This is one way to help people familiarize themselves with the metric system because they are able to directly compare Celsius to the customary temperature scale used in the United States.</p>
<p>"Many of these new technologies have made it easier than ever for customers to select their preferred measurement units," Gentry said. "When set to degree Celsius, these tools can help users benchmark their experiences."</p>
<p>These dual unit options have been increasing in popularity, specifically in sites that deal with travel and tourism. It is important that American citizens are able to understand the weather conditions in other countries that they are traveling to that use the Celsius scale.</p>
<p>"Weather and climate can impact everything from the clothing a tourist packs, the outdoor activities they engage in, to the businesses that benefit when unseasonable weather drives tourists inside," Gentry said.</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/how-much-should-you-be-eating-2015-2" >How to figure out how much you should be eating</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/why-the-us-still-hasnt-converted-from-fahrenheit-to-celsius-2015-2#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/body-temperature-when-drinking-2015-1">Here's What Really Happens To Your Body Temperature When You Drink</a></p> http://www.businessinsider.com/northeast-more-subzero-cold-more-snow-feb-2015-2The Northeast is about to get slammed with another round of subzero temperatures and more snowhttp://www.businessinsider.com/northeast-more-subzero-cold-more-snow-feb-2015-2
Thu, 19 Feb 2015 14:02:27 -0500Jordan Root
<p>A snowstorm that brought snow squalls, bitterly cold air and numbing winds to the Northeast Wednesday will swing into northern New England and the Maritime Provinces of Canada for the end of the workweek.</p>
<p>The storm will have the potential to bring plenty of weather hazards with it as it impacts portions of Quebec, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine and the Maritimes.</p>
<p>"The parade of storms continues across new England and Atlantic Canada with parts of Maine and New Brunswick again seeing over 6 inches (15 cm)," said AccuWeather.com Meteorologist Dan Pydynowski.</p>
<p>Heavy snow will create slippery and dangerous travel from Bangor, Maine, to Fredericton, New Brunswick, and Halifax, Nova Scotia, through Thursday night.</p>
<p><img class="full" src="http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/54e61c0d6da811787599a7eb-737-415/screen shot 2015-02-19 at 12.22.21 pm.png" border="0" alt="Winter Storm">The intensity of the snow will challenge road crews who plan on battling the elements with plows and road salt. The highest snowfall rates will likely be found across north-central Maine to New Brunswick.</p>
<p>"This storm will not even be close to the strength of the past blizzard, but it will be capable of producing significant accumulations," said AccuWeather.com Meteorologist Brett Anderson.</p>
<p>In addition to the snow, gusty winds will help to produce whiteout conditions. Travel on Interstate 95, U.S. Route 1 and Canadian Highway 2 will be severely impacted.</p>
<p>Montreal and Quebec City will have light snow and gusty winds through Thursday night on the back side of the storm as it pulls away.</p>
<p>The big story will be the arctic air that rides back in on the gusty winds into the Northeast and New England.</p>
<p>"Another round of wind and arctic cold will drop AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperatures below minus 20 once again in Boston and across the rest of New England Thursday night," said Pydynowski.</p>
<p>Howling winds and bitter cold will continue Thursday night and Friday long after the snow tapers off.</p>
<p><img class="full" src="http://static3.businessinsider.com/image/54e6303769beddfb0a3cbd83/cold gif.gif" border="0" alt="Cold Gif">The snow will not come to an end across northern Maine until Thursday night and not until Friday night in parts of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.</p>
<p>Friday night will be just as cold if not colder than Thursday night for many places.</p>
<p>The stormy pattern that has repeatedly brought snowstorm after snowstorm to the region will continue over the weekend as the <a href="http://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/weekend-snowstorm-ice-central-eastern-us/42545812">next one takes off through the Midwest into New England.</a></p>
<p><img class="full" src="http://static5.businessinsider.com/image/54e61c226bb3f7102bb6c78c-736-414/screen shot 2015-02-19 at 12.22.45 pm.png" border="0" alt="Winter Weather"></p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/northeast-snowstorms-in-satellite-images-2015-2" >Crazy Northeast snowstorm caught in satellite images</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/images-of-frozen-niagara-falls-2015-2" >It's so cold out that Niagara Falls has partially frozen over</a></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/northeast-more-subzero-cold-more-snow-feb-2015-2#comments">Join the conversation about this story &#187;</a></p> <p>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/end-fall-demise-mayan-civilization-new-evidence-2015-1">Scientists Discovered What Actually Wiped Out The Mayan Civilization</a></p>